The North Kenwood house that once belonged to legendary Blues musician Muddy Waters is one step closer to becoming the tribute fans have long envisioned.

A prospective owner who hopes to turn the home into a museum is expected to close on the property Thursday, said Chicago attorney Erik Miles, who represents the owner, Chandra Cooper. Miles declined to disclose the buyer’s identity.

Only a year ago, many feared the house might be torn down, after building inspectors found “dangerous” conditions and the city initiated the process of obtaining a court order that would allow demolition. Waters, whose given name was McKinley Morganfield, shared the home with his wife, Geneva, and, for years at a time, with blues musicians new to the city, according to historical accounts and interviews with musicians.

“It is exciting,” Miles said. “It think it’s great for the community and the city and Muddy Waters’ legacy.”